Kerala House Boats
Kettuvallams, the stitched boats are the traditional house boats
of Kerala. They provide the best way to experience the colourful
backwaters of Kerala. The Kettuvalloms of Kerala are giant country
crafts, measuring up to 80 feet in length.
The
traditional house boat, the indispensable part of the picturesque
backwaters of Kerala, was mainly used in Travancore and Kochi and in the
Minicoy Islands in olden times.
The wood commonly used to make Kettuvalloms is 'Anhili', which is found
in abundance in central Travancore area. Large planks are tied together
using hand made coir ropes and beaten coconut fibres.
This gives the Kettuvallams enough strength to withstand heavy waves in
the sea. These long cargo boats are a familiar sight on the backwaters.
These traditional house boats undoubtedly form one of the most abiding
images of the backwaters in Kerala.
Today, these goods carriers have been adapted to make the most exciting
tourism product in India, the luxuriously furnished house boat.
Kettuvallams or the 'house-boats of Kerala' dot the serene palm-fringed
backwaters of Kerala.
Kerala Luxury House Boats
The House boats
of Kerala are converted into floating luxury dwelling units. These house
boats are available in all sizes and shapes, the most popular
accommodation type being a suite, having one or two bath attached
bedrooms, one living room, kitchenette, an open lounge, deck and a crew
comprising oarsmen, a cook and guide.
Kerala Backwaters House Boats
A sojourn in
Kettuvallams, the House boats of Kerala, offers a panoramic view of one
of the most picturesque aspects of the God's Own Country. One can cruise
in it through the palm-fringed backwaters, throughout a night in waxing
moonlights.
The lullaby of the waves and the dazzling delights of the moonlit night
can be experienced by spending a couple of nights aboard the
Kettuvallam. The traditional house boat of Kerala is one of the most
enduring images of the backwaters.
Price For Comfort
A 24-hour stay costs
somewhere in the range of Rs. 6000. There are cheaper ones including
dormitories and one bedroom. About 250 boats operate along the
backwaters.
Cheaper boats are available for much less but it is a cheaper
experience too. At the dockside, called Finishing Point at Alappuzha,
the town of house boat operators and the starting point for backwater
journeys, the boats are available for even Rs 500 to Rs 1,000 per day.
Backwaters in Kerala |
Kuttanad Backwaters
Kettuvallam Houseboats |
Kerala House Boats
